Chapter 1 / What is Criminology? Flashcards
criminology
The study of crime and criminal behaviour. which are defined by reference to criminal law.
deviance
Behaviour that differs from accepted social norms; may include acts that violate specific rules (crime), sexual behaviours, or non-criminal acts that challenge accepted values.
demographics
Statistical data relating to characteristics of a population, such as relative size of age groups, gender balance, or any other measurable information.
correlation
The finding that two measurable phenomena occur together, suggesting a relationship, but not necessarily one of direct cause and effect.
forensic entomology
Th e study of insects to assist tin legal investigation; insects found on a corpse can help identify facts about the time and place of the victim’s death.
criminality
The state of being criminal; criminal acts or practices.
criminalization
The define an act as a crime, and thereby subject that act to formal punishment.
criminal justice system
The various institutions and processes through which an offender passes, such as the police, the courts, and correctional facilities and programs.
traits
Those attributes or features that distinguish or characterize an individual.
empirical
That which is understood or verified through experiment, measurement, or direct observation; as opposed to theoretical.
stigmatize
To strongly disapprove of a person or behaviour; to find disgraceful.
interventions
Strategies intended to shape the physical environment to mitigate crime; also various programs targeting individual offenders, offering alternatives to criminal behaviours.
geographical profiling
A tool that permits police officers to focus on the likely residence of offenders in cases of serial crimes.
qualitative
The study of phenomena based not on measurement but an exploration of the reasons for human behaviour and the qualities of subjective experience.
quantitative
Relating to the measurement of something - its quality - rather than its qualities.
